Building Managerial Capability: Key Questions for Better Leadership

One of the most pressing challenges managers face is the lack of time. Often, they juggle their own responsibilities while supervising others, navigating bureaucratic processes, and resolving mini-crises. Amid this, weeks can pass without significant progress. However, for managers aiming to enhance their leadership, taking moments for critical self-reflection can drive meaningful change.

Our capability-building services are designed to empower managers to elevate their teams and organisations. Below, we explore four key questions managers should regularly ask themselves to improve performance and leadership — along with how our services can help you answer these questions effectively.

1. Would I hire this person again?

One important question to reflect on is whether you would hire your current team members again. Peter Drucker, a management guru, emphasized the power of asking whether you would make the same decision today, knowing what you know now. This applies directly to hiring decisions.

If the answer is a confident “yes,” it’s a great indicator of your team’s stability and effectiveness. If the answer is “no,” however, it’s an opportunity for review. At ChalonPC, we offer capability-building solutions that equip managers with skills and tools for giving performance feedback and coaching employees who may not be meeting expectations. Instead of drastic or knee-jerk reaction, this question opens the door to timely dialogue and purpose-driven development. This is particularly useful for the manager and the employee.

2. How often am I hearing dissent?

Creating a psychologically safe environment where employees feel comfortable expressing differing opinions is critical to fostering innovation. If you cannot recall the last time someone on your team challenged an idea, it’s worth reconsidering your leadership approach or at the very least to ponder the reticence. .

Amy Edmondson, a professor at Harvard Business School, highlights the value of psychological safety in building high-performing teams. We teach managers how to cultivate open, constructive dialogue within teams. Encouraging diverse perspectives and open discussions is a hallmark of a healthy, forward-thinking team — and a key focus of our capability-building framework.

3. What should we automate?

Automation is a growing trend in many organisations, and managers must regularly evaluate where they can implement it to streamline operations. The rise of AI and other technologies has made it easier to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for more valuable work.

Through our services, we can help managers identify tasks that are highly suitable for  automation and provide guidance on implementing these changes thoughtfully. Instead of automating in silos, which can lead to inefficiency, we ensure that automation is integrated strategically to reduce workload and boost team productivity.

4. How many people are leaving my team?

While high turnover is often a red flag, a team where no one is leaving can also signal problems. Group-think is a known negative team performance phenomenon. Talent hoarding, where managers keep top performers from advancing within the company, can stifle growth and hinder organisational success. Research shows that managers who actively promote talent mobility tend to attract higher-quality candidates in the future.

Our capability-building approach focuses on talent development. We help managers foster a culture of growth and advancement, ensuring that their teams remain dynamic and engaged. Encouraging talent movement not only benefits employees but also enhances a manager’s ability to attract strong future talent.

Conclusion: Strengthening Managerial Capability Through Reflection

It’s easy to lose sight of long-term goals while tackling day-to-day challenges. Taking time to reflect on key questions like these can assure managers they are leading teams effectively and purposefully.

CPC provides tailored capability-building services that help managers build the crucial knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Whether it’s improving team dynamics, embracing automation, or developing talent, our training and coaching programs empower managers to make informed, impactful decisions. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you enhance your leadership and team capabilities.

Adapted from “Four questions every manager needs to ask themselves” published on The Nightly.